Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority

Annual Report 2017-18

October 2018

© Eastern IFCA 2018 Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority Report 2017-2018.

This document can be downloaded from: www.eastern-ifca.gov.uk

Alternatively, a hard copy can be Other contact details: viewed at: Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Email: [email protected] Conservation Authority Twitter: http://twitter.com/eastern_ifca 6 North Lynn Business Village Facebook: https://facebook.com/eastern.ifca Bergen Way, King’s Lynn Published online: Norfolk, PE30 2JG

Version Date Changes Officer V1 18.8.18 Created Document GB V2 1.10.18 First draft – updated contents and GB and produced new case studies Management team V3 2.10.18 CEO / Chair foreword and QA JG Final 29.10.18 Minor editing JG

Abbreviations Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science Cefas Chief Executive Officer CEO Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs DEFRA Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority EIFCA Eastern Sea Fisheries Joint Committee ESFJC Environment Agency EA European Marine Site EMS Fishery Patrol Vessel FPV Habitats Regulations Assessment HRA High Level Objective HLO Information Communication and Technology ICT Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority IFCA Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer IFCO Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 MaCAA 09 Marine Conservation Zone MCZ Marine Management Organisation MMO Marine Protected Area MPA Marine Strategy Framework Directive MSFD Maximum Sustainable Yield MSY Memorandum of Understanding MoU Natural England NE Royal yachting Association RYA Recreational Sea Angling RSA Service Level Agreement SLA Site of Special Scientific Interest SSSI Special Protection Area SPA Special Area of Conservation SAC Tactical Co-ordination Group TCG Wash Fishery Order 1992 WFO 1992 i | P a g e

Foreword

This annual report provides an overview of the work undertaken by the Authority during the financial year 2017-18 to meet its statutory duties as prescribed in the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 (MaCAA 09) and to address the priorities identified in the Business Plan 2017-2022.

2016 saw the introduction of a new process for business planning, with a move to an annually refreshed five-year business plan to enable the Authority to account for workstreams that span multiple years more effectively. This is the second annual report covering this new approach.

The elected membership of the Authority changed significantly during 2017/18 with six of the seven elected representatives leaving the Authority. This included long- standing members and former Chairs of the Authority, Cllr Tony Turner and Cllr Hilary Cox, whose knowledge and expertise was a loss to the organisation. Following the replacement of elected members, one seat (normally held by a Norfolk County Councillor) remained vacant during the financial year.

The balance of the membership in terms of commercial fishing remained the same with six commercial fishermen serving as Authority members with good representation for The Wash and North Norfolk. There is a gap because there is no representation from Suffolk, but this is recognised, and officers take this into account where appropriate. The balance of the membership included representation from the Recreational Sea Angling (RSA) sector, marine conservation sector as well as others appointed for their wider marine management experience. Cllr Goldson held the position of Chairman of the Authority with Cllr Skinner (newly appointed from Lincolnshire County Council) taking the position of Vice-Chairman.

The seventh year of operation of Eastern IFCA has seen a continuation of a prodigious workload across the breadth of the Authority’s remit. In particular work has focussed upon delivering protection of the most vulnerable features in Marine Protected Areas, managing and regulating the valuable cockle fishery in the Wash and working towards the development of management measures for crab and lobster to ensure that they are fished to Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY). Alongside this important business as usual has continued, including responding to 71 marine licensing consultations.

The Authority is majority funded through a levy on the County Councils of Suffolk, Norfolk, and Lincolnshire which is supplemented by New Burdens Funding (NBF) provided by Defra via a grant in aid to the constituent councils. NBF represents approximately 25% of the Authority’s core funding and is central to the delivery of its mandated outputs. Noting that continued provision of NBF remains the central strategic risk to the Authority’s ability to service its remit, the continuation of this vital funding until 2020 is highly valued. ii | P a g e

This is the Authority’s seventh annual report. We welcome feedback on this document from individuals and organisations interested in our work so that we can meet your needs in the future.

Julian Gregory Councillor Tony Goldson Chief Executive Officer Chairman

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CONTENTS

Foreword...... ii INTRODUCTION ...... 1 Marine and Coastal Access Act (2009) ...... 2 The Authority ...... 3 Member attendance at Authority Meetings and Sub-Committee Meetings 2017-2018 .. 4 DELIVERY OF EASTERN IFCA DUTIES ...... 5 Focus and priorities for 2017/18 ...... 6 Delivery against success criteria and success indicators ...... 14 Critical ‘business-as-usual’ work-streams ...... 20 RISK MANAGEMENT STRATEGY ...... 25 RESOURCES ...... 29 EXPENDITURE ...... 30 Remuneration of the Chair, Vice Chair and Chief Executive Officer 2017-2018 ...... 31 Staffing ...... 31 Organisational carbon footprint ...... 31 REFERENCES ...... 32 APPENDIX 1 – SUCCESS INDICATORS ...... 34 APPENDIX 2 – WAYS OF WORKING ...... 38 APPENDIX 3 – ENFORCEMENT REPORTING ...... 41 APPENDIX 4 – REPORTING ON THE COMMUNICATION AND ENGAGEMENT PLAN ...... 43

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INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this Annual Report is to inform funding authorities (County Councils and Defra), local communities, local bodies and key delivery partners of the progress made to fulfil the statutory duties of Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (EIFCA).

Eastern IFCA was created under Section 150 of MaCAA 2009 as a successor to the Eastern Sea Fisheries Joint Committee (ESFJC) and was fully vested on 1st April 2011 via Statutory Instrument 2010 No 2189. The IFCA District was created under Section 149 of the Act and Section 178 requires every IFCA to publish an annual report. This is the seventh annual report of the Authority.

The Authority district extends seawards six nautical miles from the Haile Sand Fort off the coast of Lincolnshire to Felixstowe in Suffolk and encompasses the counties of Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. The area includes The Wash embayment and various river estuaries including the Stour and Orwell in Suffolk. The district encompasses the full breadth of UK and EU forms of Marine Protected Areas including Sites of Special Scientific Interest, National Nature Reserves, Special Protected Areas, Special Areas of Conservation, as well as Ramsar sites, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty designations and Marine Conservation Zones.

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Marine and Coastal Access Act (2009)

Eastern IFCAs primary duties are set out within MaCAA 2009 and are:

1) to manage the exploitation of sea fisheries resources in its district, in doing so it must: a) seek to ensure that the exploitation of sea fisheries resources is carried out in a sustainable way; b) seek to balance the social and economic benefits of exploiting the sea fisheries resources of the district with the need to protect the marine environment from, or promote its recovery from, the effects of such exploitation; c) take any other steps which in the Authority's opinion, are necessary or expedient for the purpose of making a contribution to the achievement of sustainable development; d) seek to balance the different needs of persons engaged in the exploitation of sea fisheries resources in the district. 2) seek to ensure that the conservation objectives of any Marine Conservation Zone in the district are furthered. As a key delivery body in the marine area, the Authority is also guided by HM Government’s Marine Policy Statement, the East Inshore Marine Plan and the IFCA High Level Objectives:

• Achieving a sustainable marine economy;

• Ensuring a strong, healthy and just society;

• Living within environmental limits;

• Promoting good governance;

• Using sound science responsibly.

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The Authority

The Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority is funded by its three constituent County Councils: Lincolnshire, Norfolk and Suffolk. It also receives ‘new Burden’ funding from Defra.

The Authority is a statutory committee which meets quarterly to receive reports from the Authority’s officers and to direct officers to conduct work on its behalf to discharge its duties. The Authority’s 21 members comprise of 7 County Councillors, 3 Government Agency representatives and 11 individuals appointed by the MMO for their expertise and knowledge of different marine related sectors.

The Authority’s members and their attendance at Authority Meetings and Sub- Committee meetings on which they have volunteered to sit are detailed on the following page. The Authority has stipulated within its Standing Orders that a minimum attendance of 50% at meetings is expected. During 2017-2018 a total of seven Authority and Sub-Committee meetings were held.

The Authority is committed to operating in a transparent manner and as such all Authority and Sub-Committee Meetings are open to the public. Agendas are published ten working days ahead of any meeting, with all papers distributed five working days ahead of any meeting. Agendas, papers and agreed minutes of all Authority meetings are published on the Authority’s website at www.eastern-ifca.gov.uk.

Delivery of Authority business is undertaken by Eastern IFCA’s Officers, which comprises of four teams - Marine Science (8 Officers), Marine Protection (11 Officers), Support (2 officers) and the Executive Team (3 Officers).

The Authority is currently located at its primary base in King’s Lynn with offices to accommodate staff and a local storage unit for its portable and transportable assets. A satellite office, co-located with MMO officers in the Cefas building in Lowestoft, was opened during 2016. Vessels are based at moorings at Sutton Bridge (RV Three Counties, FPV John Allen, FPV Sea Spray) and in Lowestoft (FPV Sebastian Terelinck).

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Member attendance at Authority Meetings and Sub-Committee Meetings 2017-2018 Sub-Committee % of Authority Planning & Finance & Regulatory & Name meetings (3 meetings Marine Protected Areas Communication Personnel Compliance attended held) (0 meetings held) (1 meetings held) (3 meetings held) (0 meetings held) Cllr P Coupland 83.5 2 3 0 Cllr P Skinner 71.5 3 1 1 0 0 Cllr D Collis 50 1 *2 Cllr M Chenery of Horsbrugh 71.5 3 0 2 Vacant Cllr T Goldson 50 *2 0 0 0 0 Cllr M Vigo di Gallidoro 83.5 3 2 0 Ms C Moffatt~ 100 2 of 2 1 0 0 Dr I Hirst 25 1 0 0 0 Ms E Dixon Lack 25 0 1 0 0 Mr S Bagley 50 2 0 Dr S Bolt 71.5 3 1 1 Mr R Brewster 66.75 2 0 0 Mr J Davies 33.5 1 0 0 Mr P Garnett 100 3 1 0 0 Mr C Morgan~ 0 0 0 Mr T Pinborough~ 100 1 of 1 0 Mr K Shaul 100 3 1 0 Mr R Spray 100 3 1 0 Mr S Williamson 100 3 0 Mr S Worrall 85.75 3 *1 2 Key: * Chair # Vice Chair Norfolk County Council Suffolk County Council ~ Did not Complete full term Lincolnshire County Council MMO/EA/NE Representative MMO Appointee

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DELIVERY OF EASTERN IFCA DUTIES

Eastern IFCA’s duties, as set out in MaCAA 09, are enshrined in the IFCA mission which is to: ‘lead, champion and manage a sustainable marine environment and inshore fisheries, by successfully securing the right balance between social, environmental and economic benefits to ensure healthy seas, sustainable fisheries and a viable industry’ ‘Annual Priorities’ and ‘critical workstreams’ are the ‘what’ Eastern IFCA do pursuant of this mission. Eastern IFCA undertakes an annual Strategic Assessment of fisheries within the District to identify environmental and sustainability issues and to prioritise such based on the risk of not meeting the mission statement. These form the focus of work each year.

During 2017/18, priorities were dominated by work relating to the management of fisheries in marine protected areas. Progress against the 2017/18 priorities is set out in the next section.

In undertaking annual priorities, Eastern IFCA is guided by the Success Criteria and their Indicators, which set out the ‘how’ we will achieve the mission. The Success Criteria and Indicators were refreshed, refined and agreed with the Association of IFCAs in 2015 to reflect the developing programme of work delivered by IFCAs and to demonstrate our contribution to the delivery of the UK Marine Policy Statement.

Five case studies are provided to illustrate how each Success Criteria was delivered through 2017/18 and delivery against the Success Indicators is set out in Appendix 1.

IFCO’s at the Lincolnshire Wildlife trust Gibraltar point open day 2017

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Focus and priorities for 2017/18

The priorities for Eastern IFCA 2017-18 were identified by the Strategic Assessment 2017-18, which assessed the risk of environmental damage and sustainability issues associated with each fishery within the District. Due to the complexities involved, particularly where regulation is required, it is anticipated that some priorities will roll into the following financial year. The Strategic Assessment and 5-year Business Plan reflect that priorities will span multiple years and therefore enable more effective long-term planning.

Priority work-streams are rarely achievable within a year with some requiring significant research projects or the development of Regulation. The progression of priorities is reported in this context in the next section.

Category Work Priority Progress Comment To ensure that Delivering fisheries High Ongoing Progress delayed because of over-running timescales for the management measures for shrimp fishery assessment (see below) and requirements for conservation the ‘Red Risk’ designated additional unplanned assessments. Staff changes in 2016-17 objectives of features in the Inner Dowsing, resulted in an under-staffed Marine Science team and some Marine Race Bank and North Ridge diversion of resources to train four new Marine Science Protected SCI, and the Haisborough, officers recruited between March and September 2017. Work Areas in the Hammond & Winterton SCI identified as main priority following agreement of shrimp district are (continued from 2016-17); fishery management. furthered Delivering fisheries High Ongoing Assessment of Shrimp fishery in The Wash & North Norfolk management measures for Coast SAC completed February 2018 following extensive re- ‘Amber and Green’ designated drafting to incorporate newly-available fishing activity data, features within European feature data and updated conservation advice. Management Marine Sites (EMS) including measures in development at March 2018. shrimp management in the Annual assessment of Wash Fishery Order cockle Wash and North Norfolk Coast handworking fishery completed May 2017; additional SAC (continued from 2015-16) assessment of winter extension to fishery undertaken in and completion of ‘Amber and November 2017. Liaison undertaken with Royal Society for Green’ HRA suite Protection of Birds regarding disturbance to overwintering

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birds using intertidal flats. Annual assessment of Wash Fishery Order relaying mussel fishery completed in March 2018. Remaining “Amber and Green” assessments to follow “Red Risk” management (see above). Assessing the impact of High Ongoing Assessment progressed during 2017. Draft completed fishing activities on the December 2017; some additional work required including Cromer Shoal Chalk Beds need to reflect newly-developed conservation advice and tranche 2 Marine feature extent data. Fishing activity data and fishery impact Conservation Zone and evidence reviewed. Management measures to be proposed delivering management following completion of final assessment – identified as a measures (if required) by priority for Q1 2018/19. December 2017; Developing monitoring and Medium Ongoing Monitoring and control plan framework drafted. Plans to be control plans for highest risk developed and prioritised according to fishing impact risks. MPAs as identified in the To follow completion of “Amber and Green” HRA suite. Strategic Assessment 2017; Delivering mitigation to the Medium Ongoing A review of the existing project was conducted in 2017 to risk of ‘food availability’ in the determine the data requirements to satisfy the conditions of Wash and North Norfolk Coast the HRA for the WFO 1992 several fishery. A new data sonde SAC in relation to private was acquired to support the in situ sonde, and a monthly aquaculture; sampling regime implemented. Introduction of measures to High Ongoing This relates to the potential requirement to regulate in the mitigate the risk of damage to event that the outcome an ongoing High Court case relating the Wash and North Norfolk to the Le Strange private fishery left an area not covered by Coast SAC from ‘unmanaged’ management measures. The case had not been finally bivalve fishing activity if resolved at the end of year. required; Undertake gap analysis and Low Ongoing Liaison undertaken with Marine Management Organisation in

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initial assessment of fishing relation to assessments and management in these newly impacts within newly designated MPAs. Assessments not undertaken during designated MPAs including 2017/18 as higher-priority work overran (see above). the Harbour Porpoise Assessments included in 2018/19 Marine Science plan. candidate SAC (southern North Sea), the Greater Wash potential SPA and the extension to the Outer Thames Estuary SPA; To ensure that Developing fishery Medium Ongoing The development of sustainability measures is intended to sea fisheries sustainability management follow the establishment of a permitting mechanism (i.e. the resources are measures for the brown Shrimp Permit Byelaw 2018) and to be informed by the exploited shrimp fishery in conjunction Marine Stewardship Council accreditation of the fishery in sustainably and with priority above (continued addition to an in-house assessment of the needs of the in accordance form 2016-17); fishery. The completion of this workstream is dependant on with MSFD the completion of MPA related shrimp management and as requirements such is still on-track. Developing fisheries High Delayed The Crab and Lobster stock assessment was completed for management measures for 2017 and includes recommendation for appropriate crab and lobster (continued measures. The implementation of measures is intended to from 2016-17); be synchronised with implementation of measures related to the protection of the Cromer Shoal Marine Conservation Zone which has been delayed. As such, this work-stream’s completion is delayed. Monitor fisheries management Low Ongoing European Regulations were introduced for 2018 which are of bass in the context of more restrictive than previous years and considered to be European and national sufficient and as such, Eastern IFCA have not proposed fisheries management additional restrictions. The development of ‘new’ Bass measures and contribute to Nursery Areas, as lead by Defra has been delayed due to the development of Bass other government commitments and as such, no further Nursery Areas progress has been made.

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Investigate the cause of Medium In 2010 high numbers of a copepod parasite, Mytilicola mussel mortality within The intestinalis, were found in the mussels, which Cefas felt could Wash be responsible for the observed mortalities. In 2017, a joint research project with the University of Kingston upon Hull was commenced to investigate whether Mytilicola intestinalis and pea crabs, Pinnotheres pisum, were causal factors in these mortalities. Case Study 5 below refers to this in further detail. To ensure that Reviewing district wide bio- High Ongoing Progress has been made regarding the development of the marine security measures including additional measures for Wash Fishery Order 1992 Several environment is risk assessment of invasive, fisheries including the development of new lease conditions. protected from non-native species (roll over These have been developed in collaboration with the Fish the effect of from 2015-16); Health Inspectorate and better reflect requirements of exploitation Eastern IFCA’s commitments under the Shellfish Production Business Certification. Implementation of the additional measures is delayed due to delayed legal advice and re- prioritisation in the context of higher priority work-streams. The district-wide biosecurity review is in development and contributions to this work-stream are being made as resource allows against other high-priority work-streams. To develop Reviewing the Wash Fishery High Not Interim WFO Several fisheries (shellfish lays) policies were management of Order (1992) policy notes (roll started developed and introduced during the financial year in the fisheries over from 2016-17) response to unforeseen issues and to re-establish the regulated moratorium on issuing ‘new’ lays. In addition, several under the WFO applications for WFO licences and Lays were considered during the financial year encompassing novel issues which required additional resource and legal advice to resolve. Replacement of interim policies developed in 2016 has been delayed due to unexpectedly high work-loads in relation to administering the interim policies and the development of WFO Several Fishery polices. In addition, 2017/18 saw a

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significant burden on the industry from a string of consultations. Initially officers intended to run a consultation on the replacement of interim policies at the same time as WFO Regulations however, this was considered inappropriate. Subsequent consultation on shrimp fisheries management measures has also precluded the policy consultation. Delivering updated Fisheries High Ongoing / It was initially intended that the development of new WFO Management Plan, updated not Regulations would follow the establishment of an updated Regulations and partial cost started Fisheries Management Plan for WFO fisheries which was recovery itself dependent on completion of a long-term HRA for the same fisheries. Development of the HRA was re-prioritised due to other commitments which had the effect of delaying the Plan and Regulations. It was subsequently decided to progress with amended Regulations with the aim of incorporating established licence conditions and which would reflect modern legislative standards (clarity and Better Regulation principles). After completion of a formal consultation, submission of the Regulations to Defra for consideration by the Secretary of State was delayed to allow for the establishment of inshore Vessel Monitoring System ‘pathfinder project’, the funding model for which would have been jeopardised by the implementation of iVMS related regulations.

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Business as usual – Critical workstreams Wash Fishery Order Annual surveys have been conducted on the WFO 1992 cockle and mussel beds. These have provided Surveys evidence to support the management of both fisheries. Whelk Management and Ongoing research is being conducted to study the size of maturity of whelks in our district. This will help Research to determine whether the current whelk Minimum Landing Size that is being applied is appropriate. Crab and Lobster An ongoing project is being conducted to assess the edible crab and lobster stocks in the district. This Research involves informing fishery models with data gathered from MSAR fishery returns forms and crustacea biometric data collected from ports and processors to determine whether the fisheries are operating within MSY thresholds. Database Maintenance Throughout the year Eastern IFCA has primarily focused on the maintenance of current databases, with and Development little opportunity for the development of further databases. Risk of Conflicts with EIFCA provides advice on potential effects of marine developments on marine habitats, fish and shellfish Marine Users populations, and commercial fishing operations. We consider the effects of marine activities on the objectives of the East Marine Plans – in particular, those relating to biological, ecological, conservation and governance principles. Between April 2017 and March 2018, EIFCA provided input to 71 consultations for marine developments at their planning and licensing stages. Most involvement has been with marine licence applications (managed by MMO) for offshore renewable energy, aggregate extraction and coastal defence projects. Offshore energy is continuing to expand off the East Anglian coast, leading to multiple licence requests relating to inter alia ordnance disposal, pre-construction seabed levelling, construction, cable burial, dredging (for burial material) and placement of cable protection materials. In addition to consultations, during the same period EIFCA processed 16 applications for exemptions from EIFCA byelaws, for organisations undertaking fisheries research. Applicants included Cefas, Environment Agency and international marine research institutions. Derogations were also granted to two fishermen to take undersized mussel for relaying. EIFCA has worked in partnership with Harwich Haven Authority to promote a shellfish monitoring scheme to assess the impact of a new disposal site off Felixstowe on crab and lobster catches. EIFCA’s CEO chairs a commercial fisheries/wind farm project liaison group, set up to minimise conflict between marine users off the Suffolk coast. Enforcement Reported on in Appendix 3.

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Secondary Priorities

Category Work Progress Comment Obtaining Continue dialogue with MMO Ongoing An MMO led project is underway to develop a catch reporting better fisheries in relation to development of system for the under 10m fleet. data under 10m vessel reporting Development of relationship Ongoing A limited monitoring programme is ongoing which includes with RSA to obtain more voluntary reporting some RSA (and some small-scale fisheries data commercial fishers) but has not been further developed due to progression of other developments. It should be noted that this is a challenging workstream that may be beyond the capacity of EIFCA and could require a national solution. Development of mechanisms Ongoing Has not been further developed due to progression of other to capture data relating to developments fishing for Lesser Spotted Dogfish (including its use as a bait) Further develop the Ongoing A limited monitoring programme is ongoing which includes mechanism to obtain voluntary voluntary reporting some RSA (and some small-scale data from commercial fishers commercial fishers) but has not been further developed due to progression of other developments. Continue dialogue with MMO Ongoing MMO led project underway to develop a catch recording and other partner system for under 10m vessels. This will be factored in to organisations to develop future byelaws that require catch returns. ‘joined-up’ approach to gathering fisheries data from fishers Develop shrimp returns data in Ongoing Shrimp returns are completed for those that operate within consultation with industry the Wash and North Norfolk Coast SAC. Catch returns from

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all shrimp fishers will be a requirement of the planned management regime for the shrimp fishery. Implementation of iVMS for all Ongoing Significant progress was made towards implementing iVMS fisheries on vessels under 12m (vessels over 12m have VMS+ units), with Eastern IFCA leading from the front and aiming to complete on the pathfinder project which will install units on vessels which operate in the Wash and North Norfolk Coast. The project is jointly run by the MMO and the IFCA’s and concerns all vessels nationally, and as such is complex and has been the subject of several delays. Delivering Undertake a gap analysis of Not Liaison with the Cefas identified that private shellfisheries in fisheries available evidence in relation required MPAs are being assessed by Cefas (as regulators of management in to private fisheries, collate Shellfish Production Areas). relation to required data, assess fisheries private and develop management as fisheries in required MPAs where necessary (e.g. private fishery in The Wash).

Delivering Complete HRAs in relation to Ongoing No subtidal seed mussel fisheries identified during 2017-18. fisheries ‘unplanned’ fisheries (e.g. Additional Habitats Regulations Assessments undertaken by management in sub-tidal seed mussel EIFCA – following new conservation advice from Natural relation to fisheries) England – for the following activities: fisheries in (i) EIFCA mussel surveys (September 2017) MPAs where (ii) EIFCA cockle surveys (March to May 2018) necessary (iii) EIFCA intertidal activities (year-round) (5-year HRA). Mitigation agreed to manage EIFCA activities to minimise

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potential for disturbance to SPA (over wintering birds) and SAC (harbour seal) features. Undertake a review of Ongoing EIFCA habitat survey data analysed; mapping report drafted Regulatory Notices at March 2017 – part of evidence base for review of implemented under the Regulatory Notices (now superseded by Marine Protected Protected Areas Byelaw Areas byelaw) protecting Sabellaria reef and subtidal stony reef. External data and EIFCA survey data analysed as evidence for review of Regulatory Notice (now Marine Protected Areas byelaw) for eelgrass beds. Review of areas originally closed under Regulatory Notices to be aligned with future iteration of Marine Protected Areas byelaw. To ensure that Re-assess need to deliver Not European measures implemented in relation to bass sea fisheries ‘unregulated netting’ in the progressed management are considered sufficient at present. resources are context of bass nursery areas exploited Review the Humber estuary Not Has not been further developed due to progression of other sustainably and cockle byelaw (inherited from progressed developments in accordance North Eastern Sea Fisheries with MSFD Committee) requirements

Delivery against success criteria and success indicators Five Success Criteria and twenty-seven success indicators have been developed for all ten Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (IFCAs) within England. Eastern IFCA seeks to deliver its annual priorities in the context of the Success Criteria and this is illustrated in five case studies, which provide a flavour of the work undertaken which meets the success criteria. Annex 1 sets out Eastern IFCAs progress against each Success Criterion and associated Indicator.

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Case Study - Success Criterion 1: IFCAs are recognised and heard, balancing the economic needs of the fishery whilst working in partnership and engaging with stakeholders

Engagement with Recreational Anglers A focus throughout the year was education and engagement of the recreational angling sector in relation to regulations, specifically minimum conservation reference sizes (MCRS) and the 2017/18 Bass regulations. There was a focus on weekend and evening patrols on the preferred angling spots to ensure that anglers were aware of the regulations and Eastern IFCA’s role in enforcing them.

Educational materials Eastern IFCA produced information around regulations and MCRS for both fish and shellfish in various formats including: postcards, leaflets, posters (A3 & A4). Through NIMEG the IFCA’s also produced a national Bass guidance poster. These documents were distributed direct to anglers, to tackle shops / bait shops, angling clubs and charter boat operators. In addition, officers maintained the ‘fish signs’ that are present at key beaches and ports along the coast.

Attendance of fishing matches

Throughout the year Eastern IFCA attended several key fishing matches, to promote our work and ensure awareness amongst a key group of stakeholders. Officers attended the national bass festival at Weybourne in 2017, which was attended by hundreds of anglers.

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Case Study - Success Criterion 2: IFCAs implement a fair, effective and proportionate enforcement regime

The Tasking and Coordinating Process To ensure that enforcement activity is both intelligence led and proportionate it is driven by the TCG process, which utilises various types of information to enable informed decision making and efficient tasking. All information is considered in the round by the Chair of the meeting before allocating tasks to officers to ensure effective tasking in line with enforcement priorities. The following information is considered:

Risk Profile: A 2-page document highlighting issues raised in a data driven assessment based on the same month in the previous year. The following data is considered: • Vessels operational • Landed weights of species • Economic Reliance on a species • Importance of the species in the Strategic Assessment • Intelligence Score • Previous enforcement actions

Additionally, this document contextualises risk by relating it to engagement issues, new byelaws and other new legislation.

Fishing Trends: Fishing trends are reported by IFCOs to the meeting. They also complete the fishing trends template, which quantifies any emerging trends. The trends are collected during the previous month, by engaging with both commercial and recreational fishers. The reports are often anecdotal but reflects information that is not collected elsewhere (such as the price of crab sold in fisher’s own restaurants). Furthermore, the associated narrative infers potential trends for the coming months.

Intelligence: Prior to the meeting all intelligence is analysed and is grouped by issue/geographical area and linked to any previous intelligence to provide context and to inform any taskings that are issued in relation to it.

In addition to the monthly TCG in particularly busy and challenging times Eastern IFCA also hold a weekly or fortnightly operations meeting. This meeting is held over skype, with most officers dialling into the call. The purpose of the meeting is to provide direction on the most important issues and ensures that all monthly taskings get completed in addition to any arising issues. The meeting usually only lasts 30 minutes. Where no weekly or fortnightly meeting is held, a weekly plan is developed based on dialogue with officers and progress against monthly priorities.

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Case study - Success Criterion 3: IFCAs use evidence based and appropriate measures to manage the sustainable exploitation of sea fisheries resources and deliver marine environmental protection within their districts

Spatial management in the Wash Fishery Order cockle fishery

Eastern IFCA conducts an extensive stock survey and a Habitats Regulations assessment (HRA) each year before licensing the Wash Fishery Order cockle fishery. This work is a core element of the IFCA’s annual marine science programme. The stock survey provides evidence on the distribution, density and size composition of cockles, and additional ecological data including sediment type and presence of other conspicuous species. The HRA considers the impact of the fishery on the designated sites (Special Area of Conservation or SAC and Special Protection Area or SPA), by considering what pressures (and the magnitude of those pressures) it causes to the habitats and species protected by those designations. Evidence used in the HRA includes the IFCA’s own stock surveys, harbour seal and wading bird population and distribution data (provided by Natural England), published fisheries impact literature and results of local fisheries impacts studies.

The stock surveys and HRA enable Eastern IFCA to set an appropriate quota, identify open and closed periods for the fishery and specify spatial closures, where required. These measures, set within the framework of overarching cockle and mussel fishery policies, are designed to ensure sustainable exploitation of cockle stocks; provide for cockle-predating birds, limit physical impacts on intertidal habitats and minimise disturbance to seals and birds, particularly during their most sensitive periods.

In the 2017-18 WFO cockle fishery, a set of spatial closures was applied to protect high densities of juvenile stocks from damage and to prevent disturbance of breeding and moulting seals in known seal haul-out areas within or close to cockle beds.

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Case study - Success Criterion 4: IFCAs have appropriate governance in place and staff are trained and professional.

Governance Governance of the Authority and its operations is ensured by adherence to the Constitution and Standing Orders and a comprehensive suite of policies and codes of conduct for staff and members. Reassurance is supported by annual audits by Norfolk County Council Audit Services (internal systems, processes and controls) and PKF Littlejohn (external verification of annual financial statements). The Officers present reports to the Authority at its’ quarterly statutory meetings and to the Finance and Personnel sub-committee at the same frequency. The measure of success of the Governance of the Authority is evidenced by the reports of the internal and external audits, our relationship with stakeholders and the continued support of our members.

Training Eastern IFCA has an induction programme for all staff and a comprehensive training programme for Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officers (IFCOs) and sea going Officers. This ensures that Officers have developed and evidenced the skills required to undertake safe and effective operations. All sea-going staff are expected to hold or undertake RYA qualifications relevant to the individual’s role up to Yachtmaster (Offshore), which is then commercially endorsed through carrying out the full suite of STCW 95 qualifications and VHF certificate.

Staff turnover in 2017 resulted in the loss of engineering skill sets which was identified as a risk to continued operation of the Authority’s sea going assets. To remedy this, all IFCOs were provided engineering training in the form of the MCA diesel engine course to provide a degree of resilience going forward.

Eastern IFCA places a strong emphasis on the role of mentoring, particularly with regards to the induction of new IFCOs. Experienced officers have a significant term of service with Eastern IFCA and have obtained a wealth of knowledge and developed strong relationships which are highly valuable to the Authority. Through the implementation of personal development plans, such officers impart this to new officers providing resilience within a team-based approach. Further training requirements for all IFCA staff are reviewed through annual appraisals and progress is monitored through by line managers.

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Case study - Success Criterion 5: IFCAs make the best use of evidence to deliver their objectives Management of Wash Fishery Order 1992 Mussel Fisheries The intertidal mussel beds in The Wash have traditionally provided a valuable resource for the local fishing industry; either being harvested directly for market or relayed from poor-growing beds within the regulated fishery to leased lay ground within the several fishery. These stocks also provide an important habitat for invertebrate communities and an essential food resource for the internationally important communities of birds that reside or over-winter in The Wash. As such, they are protected under the SAC, SPA and SSSI designations for the site; the mussel fishery must be managed so that it does not prevent Conservation Objective targets being achieved. To ensure the mussel fishery does not threaten the sustainability of the stocks or their conservation status, the management decisions for this fishery are informed from evidence gathered from annual stock surveys. These involve charting and assessing the stocks on approximately 20 mussel beds. This evidence helps to determine the quota for the coming fishery, which beds can be opened and individual quotas for each bed. Mussel Mortality Study Although great care has been taken to ensure the mussel fishery does not have an adverse impact on the beds, since 2010 most of the beds have suffered high natural mortalities that have resulted their decline. In 2010 high numbers of a copepod parasite, Mytilicola intestinalis, were found in the mussels, which Cefas felt could be responsible for the observed mortalities. In 2017, a joint research project with the University of Kingston upon Hull was commenced to investigate whether Mytilicola intestinalis and pea crabs, Pinnotheres pisum, were causal factors in these mortalities. This project has involved dissecting mussels collected during the 2017 Autumn mussel surveys to determine the incidence rate of these two parasites in individual mussels. Incidence rates will then be compared with where the highest die-offs have recently occurred to determine if there is a correlation. Mussel Regeneration Project Because high natural mortalities have resulted in most of the beds declining in stock biomass and condition since 2010, Eastern-IFCA has conducted a study to determine whether it is feasible to regenerate beds without requiring relaying seed mussel from elsewhere. This project involved laying a thick culch of cockle shells onto the seabed, close to existing mussel beds, to determine whether they would encourage mussel seed to settle and grow. This trial was successful in attracting juvenile mussel settlement into all three of the study sites, in densities on par with or exceeding levels found on nearby wild mussel beds. Having demonstrated the success of this method, it could potentially be used to regenerate existing wild beds or to encourage the settlement of seed onto several fishery lays.

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Critical ‘business-as-usual’ work-streams In addition to identifying emerging risks, the Strategic Assessment also sets out which fishery or species-related risks are mitigated by established work streams. The cessation of such work streams has the potential to increase risk associated with that fishery or species. These include, for example, the annual cockle stock surveys without which, the cockle fishery would represent a much greater risk. This work is categorised as critical ‘business-as-usual’. An outline of the work that the Authority undertakes as a necessity conducted during 2017-2018 is given below:

Wash Fishery Order 1992 The Authority discharges its duties and responsibilities through a co-management process of the Wash Fishery Order 1992 (the Authority is the grantee). The Authority consults regularly with stakeholder groups to ensure that local industry representatives are part of the recommendation making process.

Two major fisheries managed under the Wash Fishery Order 1992 are the cockle and mussel fisheries. Not only are these valuable fisheries for the local fishermen, but they are also important resources for the over-wintering bird populations. As such, these are complex fisheries to manage due to the demands of the various Natura 2000 (marine protected area) designations placed on The Wash. Additionally, in recent years both stocks have suffered high natural mortality events that have had large impacts on the beds. In addition to “ridging out”, where younger more vigorous cockle force older stock from the ground, the cockle stocks have suffered high “atypical” mortalities since 2008. This has created management difficulties, but a greater understanding of the dynamics of the die-offs have enabled major mortality events to be predicted allowing a flexible management approach to maximise fisheries and minimise losses. Cockle surveys conducted in spring revealed there had been good settlement of cockle seed in 2016 that had survived the winter. To facilitate the future sustainability of the cockle stocks, this evidence was used to protect the high-density patches of these juvenile cockles with spatial closures. On-going monitoring of the stocks during the course of the fishery enabled a dynamic management approach to be used. This allowed one such area of cockles on the Gat sand to be opened after it was judged they would be vulnerable to over-winter storms. The mussel surveys found that after several years of decline, the mussel stocks had increased significantly this year following a good settlement of seed in 2016. This enabled a seed fishery of 1,500 tonnes to be opened.

The Authority acts as the ‘operator’ under the Aquatic Animal Health (England and Wales) Regulations 2009 in relation to the WFO 1992 Several Fisheries also referred to as the ‘Wash Production Area’ to facilitate ease of data collection and reporting to CEFAS.

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Wash & North Norfolk Coast European Marine Site The CEO chairs The Wash and North Norfolk Marine Partnership, which is a collection of regulators and local stakeholder representatives with responsibilities for and interests in this site. Eastern IFCA hosts and supports the Project Officer, enabling this close and productive partnership to thrive. Eastern IFCA representation on the partnership provides a broad platform for highlighting Eastern IFCA’s work relating to managing fisheries in marine protected areas, and opportunities to discuss issues with fellow regulators for this extensive and important conservation site. Furthermore, regular involvement of Marine Science officers in the project’s three “Advisory Groups” of local stakeholders ensures Eastern IFCA is appropriately engaged in local issues, which typically relate to preserving fisheries and traditional activities within the broader remit of protecting conservation interests.

Titchwell Mussel Fishery An exposed outcropping of Neolithic peat attracts regular settlements of mussels at Titchwell on the North Norfolk coast. Survey data indicates that this bed is ephemeral, with the majority of the mussels being lost each year during winter storms. If timed correctly, however, it does provide a small-scale resource for local fishermen to stock their lays with seed mussels. A good settlement of mussels on this bed in 2016 allowed for a small but successful fishery to take place that year. Because not all of the mussels were lost during that winter, further mussels were able to be relayed from this bed during 2017.

Horseshoe Point Cockle Fishery In 2011 the Authority inherited responsibility for the management of the cockle beds that occur at Horseshoe Point in Lincolnshire from North Eastern Sea Fisheries Committee. Annual surveys conducted on this bed since then have found the cockles to be suffering similar “atypical” mortality problems to those seen in the Wash. This has greatly reduced the potential to open fisheries on this bed. When the beds were last in a suitable condition to support a fishery in 2015, access issues to the site across the marsh were raised by both natural England and the land owner. At the time, this issue was unable to be resolved and fishery was unable to proceed. Since then stocks have not been sufficient to open a fishery. Surveys conducted in 2017 found there had been a successful settlement of cockle spat during the summer, but insufficient adult stocks to consider opening a fishery. Due to lack of fishable stocks and fishing opportunities on this bed, East Lyndsey Borough Council ceased collecting samples for water classification purposes during 2017. As such, this site no longer has a water classification.

Whelk Fisheries Whelk fisheries were regulated as of 2015 using an emergency byelaw and subsequently through a ‘permanent byelaw’ which was consented in 2016. This has seen the establishment of a permit system and new data collection regime which required a significant resource to administer.

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In addition, an ongoing research project has been investigating the size of maturity of whelks throughout the district to inform a review of the minimum landing size which has involved measuring and dissecting 10’s of thousands of whelks. These Whelks were voluntarily provided by fishers throughout the district that have been given exemptions by both the MMO and IFCA to facilitate and support the research activity.

Engagement in Marine Planning The East Marine Plans were published in 2014 and set out objectives and policies for sustainable development in the southern North Sea. The Marine Management Organisation is the main regulator responsible for licensed activity at sea. Large (infrastructure-scale) developments, such as offshore energy projects, are permitted through the Planning Inspectorate. Eastern IFCA plays a role in influencing development decisions by providing expert advice on inshore fishery and conservation relevant to an application. This includes consideration of potential impacts on fish stocks, fishery habitats (e.g. spawning or nursery grounds), access to fishing grounds, fisheries liaison, impacts on protected habitats and species, wider biodiversity and ensuring awareness of relevant IFCA byelaws. This is usually undertaken via the marine case management system operated by MMO, or the via the Planning Inspectorate’s national infrastructure planning process.

During 2017/18, a total of 71 consultations on marine plans or projects were received. Of these, nearly a third (30%) were related to offshore renewable energy works. Input to these consultations is led by the Marine Science team, drawing on expertise of Marine Protection officers, in particular for fishing activity or regulatory considerations.

Pie Chart showing consultation requests by category during financial year 2017/18 Coastal defences / Policy (n = 7), 10% flood management (n = 11), 16%

Offshore energy Information requests (renewables) (n = 21), (n = 7), 10% 30%

Aggregate dredging (n = 3) Coastal defences / flood management (n = 11) Conservation (n = 3) Dredge disposal maintenance (n = 4) Fisheries sustainability (n = 1) Information requests (n = 7) Infrastructure (n = 3) Offshore energy (renewables) (n = 21) Onshore energy (other) (n = 1) Pipeline and cables (n = 4) Policy (n = 7) Ports (n = 5) River works (n = 1)

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Habitats Regulations Assessment of Wash Fishery Order fisheries Eastern IFCA undertakes annual monitoring of cockle and mussel stocks in the regulated fishery of the Wash Fishery Order area. The stock data form a part of the evidence used in each annual assessment undertaken by Eastern IFCA to identify the impacts of proposed WFO cockle and mussel fisheries in relation to the conservation designations afforded to this area. This assessment (the Habitats Regulations Assessment) considers the impact of the fishery on named habitats and species and considers the overall integrity of the designated site. In consultation with Natural England (statutory nature conservation adviser) and with fishery stakeholder input, Eastern IFCA agrees updated management measures prior to these fisheries being opened each year, to ensure that the fishing activities do not prevent the conservation targets from being achieved.

This work is dependent on evidence relating to fishing activity, site condition (e.g. population status of protected species and extent of protected habitats), and fishing impacts. Within designated sites, regulators are required to apply precautionary management where evidence of fishery impact is poor or inconclusive. The continuation of commercial cockle and mussel fisheries in a conservation site as highly-protected as The Wash reflects the availability of data and the shared understanding of activities and impacts in the site achieved through continual monitoring and dialogue.

Shrimp Fishery Accreditation The East Coast shrimp fishery is seeking Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) accreditation in order to maintain markets. A pre-assessment exercise was undertaken in 2011 and identified that significant changes in practice and management would be required before accreditation could be achieved. Authority officers have supported the shrimp industry (processors and fishers) in working towards accreditation, by working with the Shrimp Fishery Advisory Working Group. A Brown Shrimp Fishery Management Plan has been drafted and will be fundamental to the fishery eventually gaining accreditation. The Authority recognises the benefits of an industry-led fishery management plan but is committed to working closely with the industry in order to align accreditation goals and management with marine protected area management aims and measures (see above). During 2017-18, the accreditation application was in preparation ahead of submission to the Marine Stewardship Council and assessment by external fishery auditors.

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Administrative Metrics

Administrative metrics 2017-2018 Byelaw derogations (and extensions) issued to facilitate research purposes 26 Freedom of Information requests 1 Environmental Information Regulation requests 0 Wash Fishery Order 1992 licences issued 55 Whelk Permits issued 30

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RISK MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

Pages 235-41 of the 2017 to 2022 Business plan outline the Risk Management Strategy of Eastern IFCA. The risk matrix sets out the magnitude of the risk to Eastern IFCA from an organisational viewpoint incorporating amongst others reputational and financial risks. The matrix also sets out the likelihood of an identified risk occurring. Mitigation which is in place or to be introduced is identified. Risk is ranked on an arbitrary scale from 0 (low risk - coloured green) to 4 (high risk - coloured red). The average of the combined financial and reputational risk is taken and plotted on to the matrix below, the likelihood of that risk occurring is also plotted. Mitigation action is noted. It should be noted that in most cases there are already many actions being undertaken as part of routine working practices to reduce the risks to the Eastern IFCA.

Risk Risk Action Mitigation Residual risk Description Eastern Tolerate • The 25% savings requested by our county funders was delivered 2 Policy driven removal of IFCA years early and sustained via stand still levy for 5 consecutive years funding directly threatens funding up to 2017/18. Modest increases are anticipated for the future. ability to meet remit and substantially • Continued assurance of financial propriety and operations within deliver mandated outputs. reduced financial regulations is provided by the continuing voluntary internal and external audit process. • Continued drive to seek efficiencies and promote cost effectiveness. • Demonstrated value for money • Advertised and promoted EIFCA outputs and effectiveness to funding authorities through regular engagement with representatives of the three County Council Financial Directors. • Engaged with Defra through AIFCA to assure continued provision of New Burden funding post 2020. • Identified mechanisms to recover costs for outputs judged to be over and above the core IFCA role. (EHO sampling, WFO management) Eastern Treat • Routine engagement with partner organisations Disparate stakeholder IFCA fails to • Measured progress and delivery of outputs aspirations introduce maintain • Represented community issues to higher authorities complexities which may

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relevance • Eastern IFCA demonstrably engaged across the drive perceptions of amongst breadth of its remit. disengagement or partners • A continued programme of community outreach inefficiency. events, stakeholder meetings and media engagement • Overt and increased use of digital and social media including Focus on delivery of MPA website, Twitter and Facebook. protective effect introduces • Stakeholders kept abreast of changes to marine conservation policy perceptions of bias towards and local implications. conservation remit from • Wash fisheries management acknowledged by local Industry stakeholders. representatives as a success in 2016. • Business Plan used to prioritise and communicate outputs Work load to service MPA • Representation of community issues to higher authorities. protective effect diverts resources from fisheries • Provision of a leadership function. management tasks. • Significant revisions to Protection team ways of working to promote Perceptions of Authority greater frequency of engagement with stakeholders. powerlessness in the face of CFP reforms affecting the inshore fishing sector. Loss of Tolerate • Investment in professional and personal development. Eastern IFCA perceived as suitably • Staff appraisal system formalised a moderate employer. qualified • Safe and professional working environment provided Perception of Eastern IFCA and • Flexible working supported and encouraged. as an intermediate step in a experienced • Regular internal communications through suite of departmental and career progression personnel inter-team meetings. reinforced. • Managers empower and enable staff by early involvement in Apparent large pool of workload planning marine science graduates • Engagement prioritised. attracted to EIFCA. Private sector tends to prey on • Broaden job content to increase satisfaction graduates with experience • Robust and reliable recruitment process gained in IFCA type roles. • Staff turnover presents opportunity to update and enhance knowledge and skills and maintain enthusiasm.

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Negative Treat • Regular engagement with all stakeholders including media outlets. Disenfranchised media • Professional standards and practices embedded. stakeholders seek to use comment • Cultural change delivered efficiently and effectively. the media to introduce doubt • Active promotion of EIFCA activity through social media as to EIFCA • Recognition and understanding reinforced through community professionalism, utility and events. effectiveness.

One off event prompts disproportionate media spotlight. Degradation Treat • Proposed fishing activities are authorised by Eastern IFCA and are Attempts to broker balanced of Marine assessed according to Habitats Regulations solution to provide Protected • Habitats Regulations assessments completed on proposed fishing protective effect whilst Areas activity in protected areas. mitigating impact on local (MPA) due • Full engagement in national fisheries/EMS project, prioritising fishing activity are ignored to fishing management of highest risk fisheries in MPAs and implementing new by fishing community. activity management measures • Enforcement efforts proportionate and effective. Fishing vessels fail to • Use of adaptive co-management approach to fisheries management. adhere to management • Regular liaison with Natural England regarding fisheries in MPAs. measures including closed • Apply the process agreed by Eastern IFCA for managing fishing areas introduced through activities in MPAs. new byelaws.

• Continued development regarding the use of iVMS as a

management tool by the Authority • Continued research into the impact of fishing activities on MPA features to ensure the Authority has an up to date evidence base to inform its management decisions. Shellfish Treat • Annual stock assessment of bivalve stocks in Wash. Failure of biosecurity and fish • Annual Strategic Assessment determines risk associated with all controls introduces disease stocks fisheries within the district. in the Wash fishery. collapse Unregulated fishing

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• Allocation of sufficient resources to monitor landings and provide behaviour threatens stock effective enforcement. status. • Consultation with industry on possible management measures. • Validation of Wash management measures via MSC pre-assessment Current management review. measures fall short of • Development of whelk stock management measures. required protective effect. • Consideration of stock conservation measures for crab and lobster fisheries through bespoke research activity, engagement with Cefas and fishing industry. • Continued SWEEP research into primary productivity levels within The Wash in line with food availability model which supports activity in private fisheries in The Wash. • Continued regular engagement with the industry to discuss specific matters. • Continued research into the cockle mortality events. • Participation in Project Inshore to inform stock management. • Bass management measures explored and consulted on. Failure to Treat • Requests for information dealt with in accordance with Data Malicious release of secure data Protection Act (2018), General Data Protection Regulations and privileged information. Freedom of Information Act. • Password protection for computers. Negligent release of • Access to the server restricted to individuals through their own privileged information. computer. • Provision of secure wireless internet. Invasive techniques • Access to electronic files is restricted based on an individual’s role. constantly evolving • Up to date anti-virus software installed on all computers. • ICT equipment and policies provided by Kings Lynn and West Borough Council (KL&WNBC) – including encrypted laptops/secure governmental email system. • Electronic backup of all Eastern IFCA documents held by KL&WNBC offsite.

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RESOURCES1

Min Life remaining Replacement Vessel details HP MCA Work Boat Code Length Commissioned Crew (years) cost FPV Sebastian Terelinck 881 Cat. 2 (60 nm offshore) 11.5m 2 2015 9 £420,000 FPV John Allen 570 Cat. 2 (60 nm offshore) 11m 2 2013 8 £420,000 RV Three Counties 1050 Cat. 2 (60 nm offshore) 18m 3 2002 2-4 £1,400,000 FPV Sea Spray 140 Cat. 4 (up to 20 miles to 6m 2 2018 12 £51,000 sea)

Vehicle details Entered service Replacement date Replacement cost

Ford Tourneo bus 2016 2022 £18,000 Peugeot 308 sw 2009 2017 £13,500 Skoda Yeti 1.6 2014 2019 £15,000 Skoda Yeti 1.6 2014 2019 £15,000 Skoda Yeti 4x4 2014 2019 £18,000 Skoda Yeti 2.0 TDi 2017 2022 £18,000 Skoda Yeti 2.0 TDi 2017 2022 £16,000 Skoda Fabia 2017 2022 £11,000 Isuzu DMax Eiger 2015 2020 £20,000

Description Purchased Replacement cost Side scan sonar 2013 £60,000 Underwater camera 2013 £30,000 Videoray 2013 £15,000 Sonar software 2013 £15,000

In addition to the assets identified above the Authority leases an office in King’s Lynn, the lease for which is currently subject to negotiation, moorings at Sutton Bridge for its vessels and a storage facility (close to the offices) in King’s Lynn.

1 The following resources belonged to Eastern IFCA on the 31st March 2017.

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EXPENDITURE

The Authority had a budget of £1,391,070 for 2017-18. This figure includes £394,145 in New Burden funding from Defra to enable the Authority to meet the additional duties proscribed under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009. Use of New Burden money is not accounted for separately by the Authority due to the accounting and allocation complexities that this would cause.

The Authority honoured its commitment to meeting the three funding councils’ requests to reduce the levy by 25% over the four-year period from the 2010-2011 base levy. The levy for 2017-18 remains at the 2015-16 level. For the year ended 31 March 2018 the Authority budgeted a saving of £44,382, which along with the revenue savings of £132,483 combined with income shortfall of £(12,007) and £115,209 of expenditure on asset replacements, left £49,649 to be added to reserves. The key budget variances were: 1) Savings in salaries due vacancy management with EIFCA operating below full complement over the whole year amounted to £94,130. 2) General expenditure (operational overheads) were overspent as a result of training of new recruits and a programme of upskilling staff in the field of vessel operations (£19,182). 3) Communication and Development, Marine Science and Marine Protection savings combined amounted to £6,694. 4) Savings on cost of vessel & vehicle operations resulting from John Allen being out of operation awaiting significant engine repairs totalled £50,841.

Reserve name Amount held within reserve @ 31 March 2018 Research £78,169 IVMS £30,000 Operational £150,000 Legal and enforcement £75,000 ICT £10,000 Vessel replacement £1,506,105 Vehicle renewals £60,000 Fixed Penalty Fine Fund £21,750 Office Improvements Fund £10,000 Defra grant £18,292 Total “IFCA” reserves £1,959,316

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Remuneration of the Chair, Vice Chair and Chief Executive Officer 2017-2018

The Chair and Vice Chair of the Authority were not remunerated directly by the Authority for their work conducted on behalf of the Authority during 2017-2018. Remuneration of the Chief Executive for the year 2017/18 was in the band £65 – £70,000. Travel, accommodation and subsistence were reimbursed in accordance with the Authority’s policies. (see table)

Travel Accommodation Subsistence Total £2,298 £1,331 - £3,629

Staffing

During the year the following changes took place: • The post of Head of Operations was filled • Marine Science team welcomed 3 new MSOs • New Senior Skipper recruited internally • Replacement Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Officer (IFCO) recruited

Outstanding vacancies as at 31/3/2018

• Data Officer/Admin • IFCO

IFCO on a cockle survey 2017

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Organisational carbon footprint

As a local government organisation with environmental protection and promotion as a core function, the Authority is committed to providing information on its environmental performance. In 2008-2009 the Authority’s predecessor conducted a baseline environmental audit and identified its carbon footprint. The results of that baseline assessment are compared to the Authority’s subsequent years of operation below.

Estimated carbon footprint for the Authority in 2015-2016 compared against a baseline of 2008-2009 2008- Source 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2009

Owned road 24.40 20.23 22.04 23.54 19.83 22.58 vehicles tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e

197.07 106.20 115.40 119.78 88.37 52.26 Owned ships tCO2e tCO2e* tCO2e* tCO2e* tCO2e tCO2e

22.59 16.48 18.37 16.83 15.08 16.39 Electricity tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e

1.06 1.18 1.14 0.57 0.13 Train travel - tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e

0.90 0. 24 Flights - - - tCO2e tCO2e CO2e

Total 244.71 143.97 156.99 162.19 124.09 91.36 tonnesCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e tCO2e Developed using the Carbon Trust online carbon footprint calculator

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REFERENCES

This report has been developed considering and with reference to the following documents:

Anon. (2009) Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009. HMSO. London. Anon. (2010a) Eastern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Order 2010. HMSO. London. Defra. (2010b) Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities: Vision, Success Criteria and High Level Objectives. Defra. London. Defra. (2011a) Guidance to Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities on Annual Planning and Reporting Requirements under s.177 and s.178 of the Marine and Coastal Access Act. Defra. London. Defra. (2011b) Guidance to Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities on the establishment of a common enforcement framework. Defra. London. Defra. (2011c) Guidance to Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities on evidence-based marine management. Defra. London. Defra. (2011d) Guidance to Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities on monitoring and evaluation, and measuring performance. Defra. London. Defra. (2011e) Guidance to Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities on their contribution to the achievement of sustainable development Eastern IFCA Business plan 2017-22

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APPENDIX 1 – SUCCESS INDICATORS

Success Indicator Progress Success Criterion 1: IFCAs are recognised and heard, balancing the economic needs of the fishery whilst working in partnership and engaging with stakeholders SC1A: The IFCA will maintain a Ongoing Eastern IFCA holds stakeholder database of stakeholder contacts that databases which are reviewed on an will have been reviewed and updated ad hoc basis throughout the year. by 31 March each year Eastern IFCA intends to complete a full review of stakeholder contacts which will include the development of up-to-date systems to more effectively hold data. Implementation of the Data Protection Act 2018 (and General Data Protection Regulations – European Commission) has led to an increased work-load regarding this indicator and which is also being addressed throughout the year as required. SC1B: The IFCA will have completed a Complete Communication and Engagement review of its communication strategy report appended to this report and implementation plan by 31 March (Appendix 4) each year

SC1C: The IFCA will have reviewed its Complete ‘News’ Section of the website is website by the last working day of each regularly updated. Eastern IFCA month. news and information from partner organisations posted in the news

area by request. SC1D: The IFCA will have reviewed its Complete New website launched in 2015 in- website and ensured it meets the line with the community objectives of its communication engagement strategy. strategy, by 31 March each year SC1E: The IFCA will have reviewed all Not Established MoUs have not been of its Memoranda of Understanding by Complete reviewed this financial year. 31 March each year. There will be a clear plan in place to update MoUs where necessary, to an agreed timescale. SC1F: By 31 March each year, the Complete CEO held post of Chair of NIMEG IFCA will have participated during 2016/17. Senior Marine appropriately, proportionately and at Science Officer (Research) Chair of the right level of delegation, in regional TAG. Officers participated in and national fisheries and conservation regional and national groups. activity identified in the annual plan.

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Success Criterion 2: IFCAs implement a fair, effective and proportionate enforcement regime SC2A: The IFCA will ensure its Complete Enforcement Strategy is published enforcement risk register and strategy on Eastern IFCA website which are published and available on its encompasses the use of the Risk website from 1 April each year Register through the TCG process.

SC2B: The IFCA will demonstrate in its Complete Eastern IFCA coordinates activities Annual Report how it has worked with in collaboration with partner other regulators to achieve consistent agencies and the MMO in particular quality, application and enforcement of through joint TCGs. Eastern IFCA management measures has also sought to strengthen collaboration with Border Force, Environment agency and the Police force through joint meetings. SC2C: The IFCA will compile records of Complete Shore-based and seaborne patrol enforcement activity in a standard reporting is established and format; provide them to the National reported to NIMEG in agreed format. Inshore Marine Enforcement Group (NIMEG) and publish them on its website. SC2D: The IFCA will adopt the national Complete IFCOs adopted national code of Code of Conduct for IFCOs, which will conducts and policies published by be reviewed annually and published on NIMEG. its website by 1 April.

SC2E: The Code of Conduct for IFCOs Complete Annual IFCO Objectives and is reflected in work objectives and personal development plans annual appraisals for all Warranted incorporate national code of Officers. conducts and NIMEG derived policies.

SC2F: Warranted Officers attain Ongoing Accreditation scheme not fully accreditation. All undertake Continuing established. New employees Professional Development (IFCOs) attending accredited training courses. Success Criterion 3: IFCAs use evidence based and appropriate measures to manage the sustainable exploitation of sea fisheries resources and deliver marine environmental protection within their districts SC3A: The IFCA will record site- Complete Site-specific Marine Protected Area specific management considerations fisheries assessments and for Marine Protected Areas and report management considerations are progress to the Authority reported at all full Authority meetings. SC3B: The IFCA will publish data Complete Scientific reports detailing EIFCA analysis and evidence supporting new research activities are published on management measures, on its website the website. These include stock assessment reports from the annual WFO cockle and mussel surveys,

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crab and lobster stock assessments and results from habitat mapping surveys. SC3C: Management information (e.g. Ongoing In addition to supporting forthcoming sampling and/or survey results) will be management decisions, the annual collected periodically after new cockle and mussel surveys management measures have been demonstrate the effectiveness of implemented, to demonstrate the previous management. Additionally, extent of effectiveness of the where sensitive seabed features intervention (eg. Sabellaria reef) has been closed, a review of the regulations is conducted periodically after closure. Habitat mapping surveys have been conducted over the past three years to assess the impact of these closures. SC3D: The IFCA will have developed a Complete Eastern IFCA undertakes an annual range of criteria-based management assessment of fisheries within the options that are explained to district to determine where stakeholders through the IFCA website, management measures may be and reviewed by 31 March each year required. The Annual Strategic Assessment is published on the website each year in conjunction with the Business Plan. SC3E: New IFCA management Ongoing Significant setbacks in measures selected for development implementation of management and implementation are delivered measures have occurred due to within agreed timescales unforeseen complexities and revised legal advice provided by MMO and Defra. SC3F: The IFCA will include shared Complete Eastern IFCA undertakes an annual agreed objectives and actions from assessment of fisheries within the Fisheries Management Plans in its own district to determine where Annual Plan, which will be published by management measures may be 31 March each year. required. The Annual Strategic Assessment is published on the website each year in conjunction with the Business Plan. SC3G: Progress made in relevant Complete Progress against development of Fisheries Management Plan areas, sustainable fisheries commitments including Maximum Sustainable Yield reported in case study 3 (ante). commitments, will be noted in the IFCA’s Annual Report. Success Criterion 4: IFCAs have appropriate governance in place and staff are trained and professional. SC4A: The IFCA will publish a Plan on Complete All previous annual plans/business its website by 31 March, setting out the plans have been published on the main objectives and priorities for the EIFCA website within the agreed next financial year. A copy will be sent timescales. to the Secretary of State.

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SC4B: After the end of each financial Complete This information is provided in the year, the IFCA will publish a Report on annual report. All previous annual its website describing its activities, reports are available on the EIFCA performance and a summary of audited website. financial information in that year, by 30 November. A copy will be sent to the Secretary of State.

SC4C: IFCA staff will have annual Complete All IFCA staff set Annual objectives performance management plans in and personal development plans place. Annual appraisals for all staff will with mid-year reviews. have been completed by 31 May. SC4D: An efficient secretariat of IFCA Complete EIFCA Meetings and Sub- staff support IFCA Authority meetings Committee meetings effectively which are held quarterly and are recorded in minutes. All meetings in quorate. Meeting documentation will 2017/18 have been quorate and meet Standing Orders. minutes are published online once confirmed as per Standing Orders. SC4E: The IFCA will have Complete Success criteria Case study 4 demonstrated, in its Annual Report, provides an example of EIFCA’s how marine, land and water collaborative work with Suffolk management mechanisms in the Wildlife Trust, Natural England and Inshore Fisheries & Conservation aquatic consultants to gather District have worked responsively and information, share expertise and effectively together. maximise training opportunities. Success Criterion 5: IFCAs make the best use of evidence to deliver their objectives SC5A: The IFCA will demonstrate Complete In addition to publishing a 5-year progress that has been made towards Strategic Research plan, Eastern- identifying its evidence needs by IFCA also produce an annual publishing a research plan each year Marine Science Plan each year that details the projects and timelines for the coming year’s research projects. This plan is informed by the Eastern- IFCA 5-Year Business Plan and an annual Strategic Assessment, which prioritises the highest risk elements of all the fisheries in the district, including fisheries sustainability, viability and environmental impacts. SC5B: The IFCA will publish a research Complete Scientific reports that support our report annually that demonstrates how decision making are published on evidence has supported decision the website. making SC5C: The IFCA’s contribution to TAG Complete The Eastern-IFCA TAG and progress that has made towards a representative chaired the group national evidence needs programme between July 2016 and November will be recorded in the IFCA’s Annual 2017 and has remained an active Report member thereafter. The group is

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active in promoting IFCAs at the national level by liaising and working with scientists from other DEFRA- family organisations, enabling IFCAs to contribute towards national evidence gathering projects and to use recognised standards and procedures.

EIFCA CEO and Marine Science officers at the Suffolk Coastal Forum conference

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APPENDIX 2 – WAYS OF WORKING

During the year work to progress the following Memorandum of Agreements (MoAs), Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Partnership Agreement (PA), Informal Agreements (IA), Agreement in Principle (AIP), Service level Agreements (SLA), Information Sharing Agreements (ISAs), contracts (C) and directorships (D) was undertaken.

These documents set out agreed ways of working for the Authority and attempt to provide clarity for individuals and organisations on their respective roles and responsibilities.

Document Signatory organisations Document purpose MoU Natural England and IFCAs Defines roles and responsibilities and ways of working MoU Marine Management Defines roles and responsibilities and Organisation and IFCAs ways of working MoU Environment Agency and Defines roles and responsibilities and IFCAs ways of working MoU Kent and Essex IFCA Defines roles and responsibilities in relation to the Stour and Orwell European Marine Site and the Outer Thames Estuaries Special Protected Area MoU North Eastern IFCA Defines roles and responsibilities in relation to the Humber European Marine Site MoU CEFAS and IFCAs Defines roles and responsibilities and ways of working MoU Lincolnshire County Council Transfer of Defra New Burden money to Eastern IFCA AIP Norfolk County Council Transfer of Defra New Burden money to Eastern IFCA PA North Norfolk Fisheries Involvement of Eastern IFCA as a Liaison Action Group (FLAG) partner in the North Norfolk FLAG PA CEFAS, King’s Lynn and Defines working relationship between West Norfolk Borough regarding the collection of water, Council Environmental cockle, mussel samples for shellfish Health Office waters classification within the Wash MoA Wash and North Norfolk Employment of The Wash and North Marine Partnership Norfolk Marine Partnership Project Manager by Eastern IFCA MoA John Lake Shellfish, Lynn Delivery of a Brown and Pink Shrimp Shellfish, Marine Ecological MSC Pre-Assessment project

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Services MoA Natural England Delivery of baseline monitoring survey data relating to Sabellaria spinulosa within the Wash embayment D Chief Officers of all IFCAs Directorship responsibilities of Eastern IFCA Chief Officer acting as a Director of the Association of Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities C Norfolk County Council Provision of Internal Audit services C Norfolk county Council Provision of Health and Safety support C Kings Lynn and West Norfolk Provision of ICT infrastructure and Borough Council support C Andrew Jackson Solicitors Provision of specialist legal advice (call off contract) C Sidekick Digital Hosting EIFCA Website IA IFCA Technical Advisory Provision of technical advice to IFCA Group COG IA National Inshore Marine Development of good practice, Enforcement Group partnership working and advice to COG C CEFAS and Natural England Charter agreement for the study of Cobble and Boulder Communities

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APPENDIX 3 – ENFORCEMENT REPORTING

Overview Significant developments in ways of working were undertaken in 2016/17 including the embedding of tactical coordination of work utilising intelligence and risk profiles, a satellite office in Lowestoft, additional collaborative work with the MMO and a new reporting structure.

On the ground, enforcement resource was focussed on EU bass regulations, cockle fishery management measures and engagement regarding shrimp management measures. Reporting against the targets for 2017/18 is set out in the tables below. It should be noted that the ‘new’, more targeted approach to enforcement is at odds with some of the targets. For example, patrols were not planned with a view to visit each port twice per month if there was a need to visit more ‘at risk’ areas.

Activities at sea were hampered by the breakdown of FPV John Allen but the shortfall was compensated to a degree by utilising RV Three Counties.

Seaborne Compliance Activity Objective Target Quantity Comment Quantity achieved Sea Patrol Days 90 89 Monitor EMS closed areas 100 67 Not achieved due to reduction in vessel capability (John Allen being out of the water) meaning that available vessels had to focus on core duties and other enforcement rather than visiting all EMS closed areas. Monitoring was optimised by using a risk based and intelligence lead approach. Board all vessels which have 100% 100% recently entered the district

Shore Based Compliance Activity Objective Target Quantity Comment Quantity achieved Port visits 2 x per Average Port visits were as directed in TCG and month of 1.73 informed by Intelligence, the risk profile (min) and fishing trends. Average was slightly below target, but high-risk ports were visited frequently e.g. Lowestoft had an average 7.75 visits per month. With ports that are low risk such as Surfleet which has no commercial vessels was only visited an average of 0.15 times per month.

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Monitoring EMS 2 x per 1.9 Monitoring slightly below target which closed areas month Average reflects reliance on at sea monitoring for (min) the majority of sites and prioritisation of this activity in accordance with a risk- based approach. IFCO’s to engage 100% 100% All ‘new’ vessels inspected, and skippers / with the owners engaged to ensure an owner/skipper of all understanding of Eastern IFCA byelaws. vessels which have recently entered the district

Partnership Working Objective Target Quantity Comment Quantity achieved Attendance at MMO Area TCG 100% 100% meeting Joint patrols/inspections/ 12 (min) 28 Joint working is now operations with the Marine embedded in IFCA ways of Management Organisation working facilitated by office sharing and attendance of partner TCG’s.

IFCO’s on a joint vessel patrol with the Border Force and Police.

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APPENDIX 4 – REPORTING ON THE COMMUNICATION AND ENGAGEMENT PLAN.

Overview of activity Eastern IFCA utilises strong ties with stakeholders in all facets of its work. From the development of management measures to the assessment of fishing activities in Marine Protected Areas, the local knowledge and expertise of the community is sought wherever possible.

Eastern IFCA attends community events and undertakes social media activities to widen the base of stakeholders who are aware of, and therefore capable of contributing to, Eastern IFCA workstreams.

In addition, dialogue with stakeholders is the backbone of Eastern IFCA’s Regulation and Compliance Strategy which seeks in the first instance to ensure compliance through engagement whist developing measures and education during their implementation. This is achieved during both shore-based and seaborne patrols of the district by warranted IFCOs.

Action How this was achieved. CE16-1 Eastern IFCA attended 4 community events: Attend 3 community events • Cromer and Sheringham Crab and Lobster festival • Wildlife trust Gibraltar point education day • Ipswich maritime festival • Kings Lynn Heritage Day. In addition to these large events Eastern IFCA also attended a coastal partnership east outreach day in relation to flood management and several screenings of the Community Voice film. CE16-3 The website has been continually updated through this period as Maintain a professional and up- required. Key updates include changes to byelaws and consultation to-date website documents. In addition to this, updates about paralytic shellfish poisoning were posted on the page and received a high number of visitors. CE16-4 EIFCA ‘tweeted’ on 41 occasions during 2017/18 delivering key Use social media posts in updates regarding bass regulations in particular (including conjunction with website promoting information products produced by EIFCA for fishers). 23 updates, to deliver key updates Facebook posts were published. to the community Social media posts in relation to paralytic shellfish poisoning were some of the most shared posts with one post being seen by 7695 people. CE16-5 Stakeholder data has been maintained and updated on an ad hoc Maintain the stakeholder basis. A more complete review of EIFCA ‘personal data’ records database will inform this work-stream. CE16-6 IFCOs have engaged fishers on the ground regarding key issues Key engagement messages throughout 2017/18 and in particular regarding the continued reflected in officer duties development of shrimp management measures and the implementation of bass regulations and the investigation of a bass

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emergency byelaw. Key engagement duties are reflected in Monthly TCGs and Weekly Operations meetings. CE16-7 A review of the Community Voice project was conducted during the Review outputs of the inception of the communication and engagement strategy for 2017- Community Voice project to 18. The project has informed the plan for next year. In addition, the inform and develop how the community voice project was used to inform the annual strategic organisation engages and assessment. communicates with stakeholders

Marine Science Officers and IFCO’s at the Cromer and Sheringham Crab and Lobster Festival

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